Communications Manager

Franklin Food Pantry

Job Description

Reports to: Director of Programs

Schedule: Average 25-30 hours per week over 52 weeks per year, with some flexibility in schedule. Occasional weekend and evening hours required.

Vacation Hours 28 hours per week

Location: Onsite with some remote work as approved by Director of Programs

Job Summary
The Communications Manager works closely with the senior leadership team to set and guide a comprehensive strategy for all Pantry communications, including but not limited to the website, social media, media relations, newsletters, and public relations collateral to consistently articulate the Pantry’s mission. This position is responsible for building the platforms and generating the opportunities necessary to expand the reach of our message, and for developing compelling content that educates, drives engagement and provokes positive responses to calls for action. Duties And Responsibilities

General Communications
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive internal and external annual communications plan and generate content across all platforms simultaneously creating consistent, persuasive, and timely messaging.
  • Partner with the senior leadership team to ensure employees are kept informed and engaged by developing and distributing timely and engaging communications through all channels including email, Teams and shared resources.
  • Work with the Fund Development team to achieve the Pantry’s fundraising goals, potentially overseeing community events as needed.
Collect Stories to Promote the Work of the Food Pantry
  • Work closely with staff, volunteers, donors and clients on an ongoing basis to capture testimonials and statistics which will successfully convey organizational impact.
  • Maintain the Pantry’s photo library by taking photos, seeking pro bono photography, or contracting with paid photographers, to capture our work.
  • Develop video content for use on the website and in social media as needed.
Marketing & Communications Publications
  • Assist the Executive Director (ED), Director of Development and Director of Programs in writing content for key publications including:
  • Community, client, donor and volunteer newsletters
  • Annual Report
  • Brochures, fact sheets, etc.
  • Work closely with the Fund Development team to determine strategies to creatively and appropriately recognize grants, sponsorships and other significant contributions to the organization. Implement those strategies as approved by ED.
  • Manage the development, accuracy, supply and distribution of all print and electronic collateral including, but not limited to, posters, infographics, newsletters, brochures, social media and website content.
Public Relations and Community Events
  • In collaboration with the ED, generate speaking engagements and talking points for the ED. Seek resources to assist in the continual improvement in effectiveness of speech in interviews and quality of both oral and visual presentations.
  • In coordination with the Director of Development, manage related freelancers and volunteers, including graphic designers, photographers, videographers, web developers and printers to enhance the visual components in communications to convey information effectively through digital and print channels.
  • Provide staff support to the Campaign Communications Committee and work with members to generate opportunities for pro bono work.
  • Cultivate strong relationships with media and serve as the primary liaison. Generate press releases and media opportunities, respond to and triage inquiries, assist with responses, monitor stories and serve as spokesperson for the organization as needed and in the ED’s absence.
  • Identify opportunities to respond to current news and events to raise awareness of the issue of hunger and its connection to other topics.
  • Maintain press list with accurate contact information.
  • Manage inquiries from community groups who want a Pantry representative to speak at their events. If appropriate, speak at the event or identify another staff person or volunteer to speak.
  • Coordinate Pantry participation in community events and when possible, participate personally (e.g., Strawberry Festival, Harvest Fest, etc.).
  • Serve as contact person for Pantry tours, provide tours and coordinate tour schedule as needed.
Online Multimedia Content
  • Maintain website content and develop new content. Write new stories, create new pages, and solicit updates from other departments including routine posts and updates (e.g., current needs list, client hours of operations).
  • Manage potential redesign(s) of Pantry web site, including working with website redesign vendor.
  • Develop and manage a social media triage protocol, including responding to online inquiries.
  • Report meaningful data about electronic media performance measures on a monthly basis to ED.
Other
  • Develop and manage a strong crisis communications protocol.
  • Seek out the latest trends, newest social media platforms, related local and national advocacy initiatives; evaluate organizational readiness and return value, and creatively incorporate into communications strategy as appropriate.
  • Act as the internal expert and resource for communications, best practice and guidance.
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required.
Skills and Requirements
  • Ability to convey a high degree of commitment and passion for the mission and vision of the Pantry.
  • Outstanding written and oral communication and presentation skills
  • Strong knowledge of communication strategies, techniques, platforms and engagement measures.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop targeted content designed to persuade and engage.
  • Exemplify positive attitude and at all times, and foster a welcoming, supportive environment for clients, volunteers, donors and co-workers
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and desktop publishing software.
  • Excellent Interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively with Pantry Staff, Volunteers and clients.
Education and Experience
  • Bachelor’s Degree in related field or commensurate experience.
  • 3-5 years experience in marketing, communications or a related field preferred.
  • Media Relations experience.

The Franklin Food Pantry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that employees and volunteers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and an inclusive and respectful environment enriches the organization, our community and the experience of our clients.